How to Reinstate a Suspended Driver’s License in New Hampshire

January 26, 2026
4 Min Read

Having your driver’s license suspended is a major disruption, effectively grounding your daily life. Whether it happened due to unpaid tickets, an accumulation of points, or a DUI conviction, the path back to the driver’s seat is rarely automatic.

In New Hampshire, reinstatement is an active administrative process. You don’t just “wait it out.” Even after your suspension period ends, your license remains invalid until you satisfy specific state requirements and pay the restoration fee.

This guide outlines the critical steps to clear your name with the Department of Safety and legally get back on the road.

Step 1: Find Out Why Your New Hampshire License Was Suspended

Before you pay anything, you need to know exactly why you were suspended. The DMV may have one reason (points), while a local court may have another (unpaid fine).

If you are unsure of the specific cause, your first move should be checking your official driving history. This record will list the specific “Restoration Requirements” you must meet, such as completing a driver improvement course or satisfying a court judgment.

Step 2: Court Fines vs DMV Reinstatement Fees in New Hampshire

A common mistake is paying the DMV and assuming you are done. You often have two separate financial hurdles:

  1. The Court: If your suspension was triggered by a traffic violation or criminal offense, you must first pay any outstanding fines or “default” fees to the specific New Hampshire Circuit Court involved. The court will then issue a clearance notice to the DMV.
  2. The DMV: Once the court is satisfied, you must pay the $100.00 Reinstatement Fee to the State.

Note: You can pay the state reinstatement fee online, by mail, or in person. However, if you have multiple suspensions (e.g., one for points, one for a default), you may need to pay multiple reinstatement fees.

Step 3: SR-22 Insurance Requirement for NH License Reinstatement

If your license was suspended for a major offense (like DWI, Reckless Driving, or driving without insurance), the state views you as a “high-risk” driver.

To reinstate, you will likely need to file an SR-22 Certificate.

  • What it is: It is not a separate insurance policy. It is a document your insurance company files with the DMV guaranteeing that you have active liability coverage.
  • The Cost: Most insurers charge a filing fee ($25-$50), but your actual insurance premiums will likely increase significantly.
  • The Duration: You are typically required to maintain this filing for 3 years. If you cancel your insurance or miss a payment, the insurer is legally required to notify the DMV, and your license will be suspended again immediately.

Step 4: When You Are Legally Allowed to Drive Again in New Hampshire

This is the most critical rule: Do not drive until you have the physical reinstatement letter in your hand.

Simply paying the fee does not instantly validate your license. You must wait for the DMV to process your payment and clear the “stop” on your file. Driving before you receive official notice—even one day early—can result in a new suspension for “Driving After Revocation,” which carries a mandatory jail sentence in New Hampshire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a “Hardship License” to drive to work?

New Hampshire has extremely limited options for “Limited Privilege” licenses. They are typically reserved for first-time DUI offenders who have enrolled in a specific impaired driver care program. For standard suspensions (like points or unpaid tickets), there is generally no “work permit” option—you simply cannot drive until reinstated.

What if I now live in another state?

You cannot get a license in your new state until you clear your New Hampshire record. The National Driver Register (NDR) shares suspension data across all 50 states. You must pay your NH reinstatement fee and clear the hold before your new home state will issue you a license.

How do I pay the reinstatement fee?

Online: Via the NH DMV portal (credit card).
By Mail: Send a check to NH DMV, Bureau of Financial Responsibility, 23 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305.
In-Person: If you want an immediate receipt, you should book an appointment at a DMV office to pay at the counter.

Conclusion:

Reinstatement is a checklist, not a waiting game. You must clear the court fines, secure your SR-22 (if required), and pay the $100 state fee. Only when you possess the official restoration letter are you legal to drive. Once your New Hampshire record is clear, you are free to make your next move. If you have already relocated or are planning to move away, you can now proceed with transferring your credentials to another state without the fear of a background check blocking your application.